Born on This Day: September 26

French painter whose dramatic realism helped define Romantic art.

American-British poet and critic whose modernist works reshaped English-language literature.

Italian pope whose leadership completed the Second Vatican Council and reshaped modern Catholic practice.

American composer whose fusion of classical, jazz, and popular music transformed modern composition.

American actor and dancer whose screen persona helped define early gangster and crime cinema.

American singer and songwriter whose Western ballads and recordings influenced country music.

British-Australian singer and actor whose music, films, and cancer advocacy had broad cultural impact.

American tennis champion whose achievements and advocacy transformed women’s sport and representation.